At The Hive, children don't simply spend time outdoors – they become explorers, makers, storytellers, problem-solvers and leaders. Rooted in Forest School principles, our programmes are designed as a journey that evolves as children grow. Young children begin by exploring, imagining and discovering the world around them. As they develop, they take on increasingly ambitious adventures, practical projects and real-world challenges that nurture confidence, creativity, resilience and independence.
Guided by experienced educators and inspired by children's curiosity, each stage offers meaningful opportunities to learn, create, collaborate and connect with nature. From woodland adventures and immersive storytelling to bushcraft, outdoor projects and leadership challenges, every mission is designed to be both engaging and genuinely rewarding.
Our sessions for children aged 3–5.5 are deeply rooted in the ethos and principles of Forest School. Through child-led exploration and supported risk-taking, children develop confidence, resilience, creativity and a lasting connection with nature. Led by experienced Forest School practitioners, sessions unfold in response to children's curiosity, creating rich opportunities for discovery, problem-solving and imaginative play. Activities may include den building, storytelling, fire lighting and cooking, mud kitchen play, tool use, nature crafts, woodland games and caring for the living world around us.
You can find our list of missions for ages 3–5.5 here.
Missions for children aged 5.5–7 are built around storytelling, adventure and imaginative play. Children step into carefully crafted narratives, taking on roles, solving challenges and helping to shape the direction of each mission. Through immersive outdoor adventures, they develop confidence, communication skills and teamwork while deepening their connection with the natural world. Whether tracking mythical creatures, embarking on woodland quests or uncovering hidden mysteries, every mission is designed to spark curiosity and bring learning to life.
You can find our list of missions for ages 5.5–7 here.
Missions for children aged 7–9 combine creativity, practical skill-building and hands-on learning. Project-based in nature, they introduce more advanced outdoor skills such as bushcraft, wild cooking, shelter building, nature crafts and Earth sciences. Children are encouraged to experiment, test ideas and learn through doing, developing resilience, initiative and independence along the way. Guided by experienced instructors and using real tools and materials, they gain the confidence to tackle increasingly ambitious challenges.
You can find our list of missions for ages 7–9 here.
Missions for children aged 9–11 are designed around ownership, leadership and real-world problem-solving. Working together on meaningful outdoor projects and complex challenges, children are encouraged to take responsibility, make decisions and contribute their own ideas. These missions develop critical thinking, collaboration and self-management skills while deepening practical knowledge and outdoor competence. The focus is on purposeful achievement, giving children the opportunity to create, lead and overcome challenges that feel genuinely rewarding.
You can find our list of missions for ages 9–11 here.
Forest School is not simply an activity we offer – it is the foundation of everything we do. As an organisation that also runs a fully outdoors nursery and trains Forest School practitioners across the UK, we bring a depth of expertise that shapes every aspect of our programmes. Our approach prioritises child-led learning, supported risk-taking, connection with nature and the development of confidence, resilience and independence.
At The Hive, children don't follow a standard activity timetable. Instead, they take part in carefully designed missions and projects that combine storytelling, creativity, practical skills and problem-solving. With more than 40 original workshops and adventures to choose from, children might find themselves tracking mythical creatures, designing shelters, producing films, building woodland structures or solving real-world challenges in the outdoors.
Our team includes Forest School leaders, artists, makers, scientists, filmmakers, bushcraft specialists and outdoor educators. Many bring years of professional experience from their chosen field, alongside a passion for working with children. This breadth of expertise allows us to offer experiences that are both ambitious and authentic, introducing children to new skills, ideas and ways of thinking.
We believe children are capable of far more than they are often given credit for. Guided by experienced instructors, children learn to use real tools, work with natural materials, solve practical problems and take ownership of meaningful projects. Learning through trial and error is actively encouraged, helping children develop resilience, resourcefulness and confidence in their own abilities.
Children learn best when they feel known, supported and trusted. We work in small groups with high levels of adult support, creating opportunities for meaningful relationships, collaboration and individual growth. Our programmes take place in beautiful woodlands, fields and outdoor learning environments across London, giving children the freedom to explore, create and connect with nature in ways that are increasingly rare in modern childhood.
